A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Destin or Napa Valley?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Napa Valley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a relaxing, peaceful, and family-friendly beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Destin and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Destin or Napa Valley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Napa Valley than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Napa Valley is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Destin is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Destin is well known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Napa Valley is well known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. Also, Napa Valley is famous for Louis M. Martini Winery.

How is Destin different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Napa Valley and Destin. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Destin or Napa Valley?

Destin
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a moderate area for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Destin or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Destin
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

Napa Valley has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Napa Valley has plenty to do after the sun goes down. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Destin
Napa Valley

Destin is a great beach town for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley is not a resort destination.

In Destin, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is Destin or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

Destin
Napa Valley

Destin is a great beach town for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Destin attract visitors from all over. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Destin
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Napa Valley is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Napa Valley?

Destin
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is notable for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Napa Valley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.


Is Destin or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Destin
Napa Valley

Destin is a great beach town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Destin. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Destin or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Destin
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Napa Valley has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Is Destin or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Destin
Napa Valley

Neither Destin or Napa Valley offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Public transit is quite limited in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.


Is Destin or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Destin
Napa Valley

Neither Destin or Napa Valley are walkable places.

Destin is not a walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

Napa Valley is not a very walkable beach town. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Destin?

How long in Destin or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Destin or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Destin due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

Families should spend more time in Destin than Napa Valley. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Destin, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Napa Valley than Destin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Napa Valley that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Napa Valley than Destin if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Napa Valley.


  • How many days in Destin or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Destin or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing beach town of Destin. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Napa Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Destin or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Destin. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Napa Valley is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Destin or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful beach town of Destin. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napa Valley. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the picturesque destination of Napa Valley. This area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Destin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $192, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $288. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Destin and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Destin and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Napa Valley? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Destin


Hotels in Napa Valley


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Destin Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Destin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Destin:

  • Destin, FL to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $71

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110
  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Destin change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Destin $51
    Napa Valley $62

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Destin.

  • 3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Mother's Day Sunset Dinner Cruise: SOLARIS Yacht Miramar Beach FL: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Napa Valley $28
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Destin are as follows:


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Destin are as follows:

  • FAMOUS Destin Dolphin Cruise & Crab Island Sandbar: $70
  • 1 Hour and 30 Minutes Harbor Sightseeing Cruise from Destin: $60
  • 3 Hour Crab Island and Dolphin Cruise from Destin : $70
  • Chakras Sound Bath Meditation Experience in Destin: $35
  • Clear Kayak Ecotour Destin Ft. Walton Beach: $75
  • Clear Kayak Glow Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach: $75
  • Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna: $75
  • Crab Island Dolphin Jetski Adventure : $227
  • Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise: $40
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Destin Private Guided Sunset Cruise up to 6 Passengers: $230
  • Crab Island Catamaran Tour with Dolphin Watching: $59

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $25
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley "Up Valley" Castle Tour : $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour: $125
  • Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour: $125
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Sonoma Valley: $130
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Destin and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley is more expensive. And not only is Destin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Destin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Destin and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Napa Valley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Napa Valley than you might in Destin.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Destin Expensive? and Is Napa Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Destin or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Napa Valley, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Destin or Napa Valley?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Destin or Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Destin as well as Napa Valley. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Destin is generally a little warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 82°F (28°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the summer. Destin usually gets more rain in July than Napa Valley. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Destin or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Destin in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Destin is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Destin or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and Destin during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Destin is a little warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Destin in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 46°F (8°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in January than Napa Valley. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Destin or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Napa Valley. The spring months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

In April, Destin is generally a little warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 68°F (20°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Destin usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Destin

Destin Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)